Short on time to cook? Check out these fast spaghetti dinners

Our love affair with spaghetti often begins before we can walk and continues in grade-school cafeterias, where spaghetti day is everyone's favorite. As parents tried to comfort us through life's challenges, their kind words were often accompanied by a plate of spaghetti. It's no wonder generation after generation still eats spaghetti for dinner on a regular basis.

Although spaghetti with tomato sauce still tops the list of favorites now that we're adults, there are many delicious options to dress this likable pasta. Most are easier than making a red sauce, and all the recipes come together quickly. From black pepper, garlic and pecorino Romano to pesto, carbonara, garlic and olive oil, there's something here for every spaghetti lover.

Spaghetti cacio e pepe
This classic is outstanding, but you must follow the steps closely to assure success. For starters, be sure to reserve your pasta cooking water. Like magic, just a few choice ingredients result in a pasta phenomenon. Get the recipe here.Quick pesto spaghetti
Jarred pesto is great for a quick spaghetti fix. A gourmet boost of cream, butter and a handful of fresh Parmesan transforms it into a dish fit for royalty. It reheats beautifully on the very lowest microwave setting for two or three minutes. Get the recipe here.Spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and oil)
The starch in the pasta water is the perfect binder for Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes in this simplest of spaghetti meals. It's an ideal late-night dinner when you come home famished. Get the recipe here.Quick spaghetti carbonara
Timing is the key to this creamy carbonara. Combine your eggs and cheese ahead of time, and reserve the pasta water before you proceed. The mouth-watering results are worth the prep step. A nice dinner salad rounds out the meal. Get the recipe here.Shrimp, pesto and spinach spaghetti
Here's a meal fit for a food competition. Spinach adds a pop of color, and the toasted walnuts are a genius gourmet touch. Get the recipe here.Spaghetti with tomato basil sauce
Spaghetti with red sauce is one thing. Spaghetti with red sauce made with imported canned tomatoes and a liberal quantity of full basil sprigs is a delight. Don't forget to reserve the basil sprigs; they're the perfect garnish. Get the recipe here.